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1. What are the responsibilities of the Plan Commission?

The Palatine Plan Commission is a hearing and advisory body, comprised of Palatine residents, for land use proposals. Under state law it acts as the public hearing body for the Village Council. Commissioners listen to the public, the petitioner (often a person wishing to develop property) and Village staff.

2. What are the responsibilities of the Zoning Board of Appeals?

The Palatine Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) is an advisory body, comprised of Palatine residents, for the hearing of special use and variation petitions. Under state law, it acts as the public hearing body for the Village Council. Members listen to the public, the petitioner and Village staff.

3. What is a Variation?

A Variation is a grant of relief by the Village Council, with recommendations given by the Village Staff and Zoning Board of Appeals, from specific limitations of the zoning ordinance. A variation is granted so a structure can be constructed or modified in a unique manner which does not meet some aspect of the Zoning regulations.

4. What is a Special Use?

A Special Use is permission granted by the Village Council, with recommendations given by Village Staff and the Zoning Board of Appeals, for use of property in a way not ordinarily permitted in a given zoning district classification.

5. Why do certain projects need to have a Special Use?

The projects that require a special use are typically unique requests which require further evaluation by the Village for any possible impact on the public health, welfare and safety.

6. What residential uses require a Special Use?

Please refer to these specific sections of the Zoning Ordinance for residential uses in the Residential Districts that require a Special Use. 

R-1, Single Family Residential: Section 10.02 (c) 

R-1A, Single Family Dwelling District: Section 10.03 (c) 

R-1B, Single Family District: Section 10.04 (c) 

R-1C, Single Family District: Section 10.05 (c) 

R-2, Single Family Dwelling District: Section 10.06 (c) 

R-3, High Density Multifamily District: Section 10.07 (c)

7. What commercial uses require a Special Use?

Please refer to these specific sections of the Zoning Ordinance for commercial uses in the Business Districts that require a Special Use.

- B-1, Shopping Center District: Section 11.02 (d)
- B-2, General Business District: Section 11.03 (d)
- B-3, Central Business District: Section 11.04 (f)
- B-4, Office-Research District: Section 11.05 (d)
- B-5, Highway Business District: Section 11.06 (e)
- M, Manufacturing District: Section 12.01(h)